Apparatus and methods for facilitating the removal of existing turf and installing new turf

ABSTRACT

A turf cutter device, an infill extractor/collector device, and a turf wind-up device are used to facilitate the cost-effective removal of an infilled synthetic turf and the subsequent installation of a new turf at the same site, with minimal subsurface disruption. An infill extractor/collector device mounted on a motorized vehicle moves a relatively narrow strip of filled artificial turf from the surface, in front of the vehicle, and directs the strip to an infill removal station. The infill removal station inverts the strip and redirects the strip back toward the front of the vehicle, after agitating the strip to extract the infill. After redirecting the strip toward the front of the vehicle, the vehicle drives over the unfilled strip. Meanwhile, the extractor/collector device moves the extracted infill rearwardly to a bag located in a trailer. The turf cutter device is used prior to infill extraction, while the turf wind up device may be used before or after infill extraction, depending on whether infill extraction takes place at the field or at a remote site, respectively.

RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No.13/965,738, filed Aug. 13, 2013, the content of which is herebyincorporated by reference into this application in its entirety. U.S.patent application Ser. No. 13/965,738 claimed priority, under Section120 and/or Section 371 to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/793,353,filed Mar. 11, 2013, which in turn claimed priority, under Section 120and/or Section 371, to PCT patent Application No. PCT/US2012/033829,filed on Apr. 16, 2012, which in turn claimed priority to U.S.Provisional Patent Application No. 61/606,808, filed Mar. 5, 2012, toU.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/475,508, filed Apr. 14, 2011,and also to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/206,723, filed Aug. 10,2011, the contents of all of which are hereby incorporated by referenceinto this application, in their entireties

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to infilled synthetic turf, andparticularly to apparatus and methods for removing an existing infilledsynthetic turf and extracting and collecting the particulate infill. Thepresent invention also contemplates the facilitated installation of anew infilled synthetic turf.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Synthetic turf continues to gain popularity, as an athletic fieldsurface for professional teams, college teams, high school teams, andeven public parks. Current types of athletic turf simulate natural grassvery well, while eliminating the typical costs associated withmaintaining a natural turf, such as watering, mowing, fertilizing, andeven replacing the worn turf when bare spots occur.

There are any number of reasons why a synthetic turf may need to bereplaced, including decreased playability, loss of aesthetic appeal,warranty expiration, or perhaps even safety concerns. Regardless of theone or more reasons that may apply to any specific synthetic turf, therecomes a time when the synthetic turf must be removed from the site, andin all likelihood, another synthetic turf put down in its place.

Owners of synthetic fields have become accustomed to virtualround-the-clock use of their synthetic turf athletic fields. For thisand other reasons, it is important that the removal of an existingsynthetic turf, and its replacement with a new synthetic turf, occur asefficiently as possible. Also, the components of a removed syntheticturf are often reused or recycled for other purposes. Therefore, it isalso desirable to remove a synthetic field in a manner that readilyfacilitates such reuse or recycling.

One conventional process for removing synthetic turf has typicallyinvolved using a bobcat with claw attachments to simply rip and tearthrough the seams of the existing turf, to literally eat through thefield so that it can be stripped from the site. In such instances, it isdifficult or time consuming to reuse or recycle the ripped out turf.Also, the use of a bobcat in this manner, to tear out an existingsynthetic turf, will inevitably disrupt the carefully compacted andleveled subsurface that resides beneath the synthetic turf. In suchinstances where the subsurface is disrupted, the subsurface will need tobe reconstructed prior to the placement of a new synthetic turf on thesame site. This replacement or reconstruction of the subsurface adds tothe time and costs associated with installing a new synthetic turf.

Most infilled synthetic turfs use an infill of sand, rubber, or acombination of sand and rubber. The particulate nature of such infillmaterials, and the weight thereof, can lead to complications in removingthe synthetic turf. Moreover, the particulate infill is valuable, andmay have a useful lifetime that is longer than the useful lifetime ofthe synthetic turf fibers.

Others have tried different methods or devices for removing a syntheticturf from a site. For instance, a product called TurfMuncher, apparentlybeing commercialized by a company called Field Away, is shown anddescribed at www.fieldaway.com. Another existing device is referred toas the CarpetEater, and can be found at www.carlrennen.nl. The deviceshown at this site seems to be the subject of EP 2 387 875, entitled“Infill Removal Device For Removing Infill From A Strip Of ArtificialTurf.”

The state of the art can further be understood via the following patentreferences: 1) U.S. Patent Publication No. 2010/0001115, entitled“Apparatus And Method For Handling an Artificial Turf Arranged On ABase;” 2) U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012/0006930, entitled “ArtificialTurf Remover And Infill Separator, And Method Of Use Thereof;” 2) U.S.Patent Publication No. 2010/0319510, entitled “Apparatus For ColletingArtificial Turf For Recycling;” 4) WO2010/094576, entitled “Recycling OfArtificial Turf;” and 5) Japanese Patent Publication No. JP200000831482.The above-referenced U.S. '510 publication provides a good generaldescription of some of the practical problems associated with removing asynthetic turf.

For one reason or another, the state of the art has not yet adequatelyaddressed the practical concerns associated with removing an infilledsynthetic turf and installing a new turf.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is an object of the present invention to reduce the time and costassociated with removing an existing infilled synthetic turf and/orreplacing the existing turf with a new turf.

It is another object of the present invention to facilitate the reuseand/or recycling of components of an existing infilled synthetic turf.

It is still another object of the present invention to minimize thedisruption caused to the prepared subsurface during the removal of anexisting infilled artificial infill synthetic turf and/or theinstallation of a new infilled synthetic turf, and also to protect anysurrounding susceptible surfaces.

It is still another object of the present invention to simplify theprocedures associated with, and the equipment used in, removing anexisting infilled synthetic turf and/or installing a new infilledsynthetic turf.

To achieve one or more of these objects, in a general sense, andaccording to one preferred embodiment of the invention, the presentinvention relies on a modified vehicle of the type shown in U.S. Pat.No. 5,307,880, and various implements that are able to connect thereto,so as to enable a high degree of versatility in removing an infilledsynthetic turf and replacing it with another. For instance, theinvention contemplates a removal process that involves cutting the fieldinto relatively narrow strips, with a cutter device, then extracting andcollecting the infill from the strips but placing the strips back ontothe subsurface, with an extractor/collector device, followed by windingup the unfilled strips with a turf wind up device. These devices aredesigned to work with relatively narrow strips of turf, preferably about45 inches. This relatively narrow width reduces problems associated withoverly large and heavy rolls of turf, whether filled or infilled. Therelatively narrow width of these strips makes the entire process moremanageable, and takes into consideration one presumption, namely, thatthe artificial turf itself will not be reused as a turf for a largefield, i.e., it is worn out and/or not re-usable.

According to one aspect of the invention, one or more of theseabove-described devices may be removably attachable to the motorizedvehicle. The ability to removably attach one or more of these device,and the concurrent use of more than one vehicle during the removal of aninfilled turf, can reduce the overall time needed to remove the turf.Moreover, each of the devices is operable with the vehicle so as tosubstantially minimize direct contact with the subsurface, or toeliminate such contact altogether. Preferably, the motorized vehicle issupported on two spaced endless loop treads, so that the force per unitarea remains relatively low, due to the even distribution of the weightof the vehicle and the accompanying devices.

The shape, configuration, and operation of the extractor/collectorcauses the accompanying vehicle to be seldom driven on the subsurface.And even if driving on the subsurface does occur, the treads of thevehicle help to evenly distribute this weight, as noted above. Moreover,this same principle applies with respect to cutting an existing turfinto strips, when the cutting device is used. That is, the cuttingdevice is also shaped and configured so that it does not require anycontact with the subsurface during cutting. Still further, duringcutting the cutting device enables the next set of cut lines to bemarked, if desired, for the next adjacent rows.

Still further, contact with the subsurface can also be avoided whenwinding up the infilled turf, simply by locating the wind up device atone end of the strip so as to remain stationary during the wind upprocedure, to pull the unfilled turf across the subsurface. This isdoable because the strip has a width that is relatively low, i.e. about45 inches, and because it is unfilled so that the weight is relativelylow. The advantage of leaving the wind up device stationary is that thesubsurface remains untouched as the turf is removed.

Also, or in alternative, the use of a relatively narrow width enables anexisting field to be, first, cut into strips, and then second, wound upwith the strips remaining in a filled condition, and the wind up deviceremaining stationary and located at the side of the field. Under thisscenario, as opposed to on-site infill extraction, the filled stripscould be shipped to a processing site for extraction and collection ofthe infill, most likely from a stationary extractor/collector. Thisarrangement would facilitate ongoing reprocessing and/or recycling ofthe infill and the removal of turf in a continuous operation servingmultiple fields and/or geographical regions via one fixed regionalextractor/collector site.

According to one preferred aspect of the invention, the vehicle iseasily maneuverable to connect the desired devices. In a typicaloperation, an existing field is first cut into strips of desired width,using the cutting device. Thereafter, the infill is extracted andcollected from the strips, using the extractor/collector device. Then,the unfilled strips are collected using the wind-up device. Becausethese devices can be removably connected to the same vehicle, thesimultaneous use of multiple vehicles will speed up the process. Thus,according to this aspect of the invention, to optimize versatility andinterchangeability, all of the devices are removably connectable to onetype of motorized vehicle. Thus, if a contractor has two vehicles, anytwo of the devices can be used at the same time.

Alternatively, one of the vehicles may be dedicated for full time usewith the extractor/collector device. This alternative approach may bepreferred because the power requirements for the extractor/collectordevice are substantially greater than those of either the cutter deviceor the wind up device. Moreover, the extractor/collector procedure ismore time consuming than the other two procedures. So according to thisalternative, i.e., the second preferred embodiment, one higher poweredvehicle remains dedicated to the infill extractor/collector, while aseparate vehicle is used for cutting and winding up the turf, viainterchangeable use of the turf cutter and the turf wind up devices.

With respect to infill removal, the extractor/collector has threeprimary sections, an input section, which includes a ramp, an infillremoval section, and an infill collection section. The ramp facilitatesinitiation of the removal process. That is, due to the shape andorientation of the ramp, an operator has a clear line of sight to theleading edge of the strip of turf to be removed. Also, the apparatusenables the operator to pivotally raise or lower the ramp. Thus, theoperator can often maneuver the ramp so as to catch a leading edge ofthe strip. Alternatively, the leading edge can be fed by hand onto thebottom edge of the ramp. Either way, only a relatively short leadingedge of the strip needs to be located on the forward edge of the ramp toinitiate removal of the strip. An operator standing on the second, orremoval end of the vehicle can easily see the front end of the ramp.

Preferably, the ramp includes a forward plate, a belt-type conveyerresiding rearward of the plate, and a drive roller which bears against atop surface of the strip as it moves up from the plate to the conveyor.Essentially, the ramp acts as an input section of the extractor.

With a first preferred embodiment, the ramp includes an upper pinchroller to aid in directing the strip to the infill removal section. Theramp may also include a lower pinch roller, which may be activelydriven, or simply a passive rotating device. The infill removal sectionincludes a housing with one or more agitators, or beaters, which contactthe strip to remove infill therefrom as the strip moves therethrough. Adownstream roller, located in the housing and downstream of the at leastone or more agitators, engages and pulls the strip through the infillremoval section, and preferably operates at a speed greater than theramp roller. This helps to keep tension on the strip. When the trailingedge of the strip reaches the top roller of the ramp, it may bedesirable to reverse the rotation of the conveyor pinch roller, therebyto restrain the trailing edge from being pulled prematurely into theinfill removal section.

According to an additional embodiment, the use of an undulating path forthe strip to traverse through the housing of the extractor/collectorcauses the strip to open up, to close up, and then to reopen. Thispromotes effective removal of the infill. More specifically, accordingto this embodiment, the ramp does not need a pinch roller, either at thetop or bottom. Rather, the housing includes a plurality of pacingrollers, with spaced engagement teeth, that rotate to pull the stripalong the path and toward the agitators located downstream thereof.These pacing rollers control the speed of the strip, and help torestrain the trailing edge thereof.

These pacers also invert the strip and direct it forward and toward thefirst agitator, or rotatable beater, which acts on the strip while in anopen condition, then to a tension roller, which closes the strip, andthen to a second agitator which again acts on the strip in an opencondition. Again, this undulating open/close/open path promoteseffective removal of the infill, and collection in the bottom of theinfill removal section where it is augered to a conveyor.

Because the infill conveyor resides on one side of the vehicle, anoperator of the vehicle can easily see the infill as it is conveyedrearwardly from the extractor/collector to the trailer. Also, thetrailer is offset from the aft end of the vehicle, which also enablesthe operator to see the infill falling from the conveyor into the bag,or even when the bag is getting too full.

The second end of the conveyor includes a downward deflector, to deflectthe conveyed infill downward to the bag. This minimizes problems thatcould otherwise be caused by wind. Also, if desired, the conveyor itselfcould be covered with a hood, with some or all of the hood beingtransparent.

The use of the conveyor and trailer eliminates the need to drive anothermotorized vehicle onto the surface in order to collect the extractedinfill. The trailer and its accompanying bracket are sized toaccommodate the upwardly and rearwardly extending conveyor. Thisstructure causes the extracted and collected infill to be easily andcontinuously collected in the bags. Preferably, the trailer includes apush mechanism that moves the filled bag from the trailer, and onto theunfilled turf residing behind the trailer. These bags have upper endsthat can be moved by a fork lift. Preferably, the wheels of the trailerare large flotation type, to better distribute the weight of thetrailer, particularly with the bag therein.

The apparatus and methods described herein eliminate the need for largeor heavy construction or truck-based equipment, or complicatedmachinery. Nonetheless, these attachments are sturdy and suitable forrigorous and continuous use, in a user-friendly manner. Also, theattachments are fairly easy to transport and store during periods ofnon-use.

These and other features of the present invention will be readilyunderstood by a person skilled in the art, by reference to the followingFigures which show several preferred embodiments of the invention, andthe following detailed description which describes those preferredembodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

FIG. 1 is an isometric view showing a first preferred embodiment of avehicle that may be used in conjunction with one or more devices, to cuta synthetic turf field into strips, to separate infill from the stripsof synthetic turf for collection, to remove the strips of synthetic turffrom the field by winding, and to install new synthetic turf.

FIG. 1A is an isometric view showing the vehicle of FIG. 1 with a turfcutting device, or attachment, constructed according to a firstpreferred embodiment of the invention connected thereto, the turfcutting attachment including turf cutters for cutting a strip ofsynthetic turf.

FIG. 2 is an isometric view showing one side of the turf cuttingattachment shown in FIG. 1A, including the position marking assembly.

FIG. 3A is a schematic elevation view showing the vehicle/turf cuttingattachment arrangement of FIG. 1A adjacent a field of synthetic turf.

FIG. 3B is a schematic elevation view showing the vehicle/turf cuttingattachment arrangement of FIGS. 1A and 3A, the turf being guided towardand cut by a turf cutter.

FIG. 4 is a plan view showing a synthetic turf field being cut by thevehicle/turf cutting attachment arrangement of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 5 is a plan view that shows a synthetic turf field as it is cut bythe vehicle mounted turf cutting attachment shown in FIG. 1A (rightside), and which also shows, concurrent therewith, infill being removedfrom another strip of the synthetic turf by a separate vehicle equippedwith an infill extractor/collector device (left side).

FIG. 6 is a schematic elevation view showing the vehicle of FIG. 1 with,connected thereto, an infill extraction and collection deviceconstructed according to a first preferred embodiment of the invention,for removing infill from the synthetic turf.

FIG. 7 is a schematic elevation view of the same vehicle and infillextraction and collection device of FIG. 6, with the device having aforward insertion plate inserted underneath a portion of synthetic turfto be lifted for infill extraction and collection.

FIG. 7A is a schematic sectional view which shows the internal featuresof the infill extraction and collection device of FIGS. 6 and 7,including the conveyor belt, the driven nipped rollers, the at least oneagitator, and the auger.

FIG. 7B is a schematic sectional view which shows a strip of syntheticturf as it travels through the housing of the infill extraction andcollection device of FIGS. 6, 7, and 7A, as the infill is removedtherefrom and collected in the collection bin.

FIG. 7C is a schematic sectional view which shows the rearwardcomponents of the structure shown in FIG. 7, with the extracted infillbeing delivered from the collection bin to a collection trailer,according to one preferred embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 7D is a schematic elevation view showing a bag of infill that hasbeen removed from the collection trailer shown in FIG. 7C.

FIG. 7E schematically shows the structure of an alternative infillextraction and collection device, according to another alternativeembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 8A is an isometric view of a turf wind up device constructedaccording to a first preferred embodiment of the invention, the turfwind up device being suitable for rolling up, or winding up, a strip ofsynthetic turf.

FIG. 8B is a schematic isometric view of the turf rolling device of FIG.8A, as it begins to roll up a strip of synthetic turf.

FIG. 8C is a view similar to that of FIG. 8B, showing the turf rollingdevice as it further rolls up the strip of synthetic turf.

FIG. 9A is a schematic elevation view of the turf rolling device ofFIGS. 8A, 8B, and 8C, in combination with a vehicle, according to oneaspect of the invention, with the vehicle positioned adjacent a strip ofsynthetic turf to be wound up.

FIG. 9B is a view similar to FIG. 9A, showing the vehicle and the turfrolling device as the device begins to roll up the synthetic turf.

FIG. 9C is a view similar to FIGS. 9A and 9B, showing the strip ofsynthetic turf nearly completely rolled up by the turf rolling device.

FIG. 10 is a plan view showing two moving vehicles, with one movingvehicle operatively connected to a turf wind up device as the devicewinds up a strip of synthetic turf (left side), and a second movingvehicle operatively connected to an infill extraction and collectiondevice as the device extracts and collects infill from the syntheticturf (right side).

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

In addition to the application referenced above, applicants expresslyincorporate herein, by reference, in its entirety, U.S. Pat. No.5,307,880, entitled “Sod Rollout Machine With Endless Tracks.”

The present invention relates to devices and methods pertaining to theinstallation and removal of synthetic turf from a field, and to removinginfill from the synthetic turf. In particular, a vehicle and severalattachment devices are provided that are useful for performing stepsrelating to the installation and removal of synthetic turf, and toremoving infill from the synthetic turf. The attachment devices areuseful for cutting a synthetic turf field into strips, removing infillfrom the synthetic turf and collecting the infill, removing thesynthetic turf from the field, and for installing new synthetic turfonto the field. The device used for the purpose of removing the infill,i.e., extracting and collecting the infill, connects to both the front(or leading end) of the vehicle and the rear (or trailing end) of thevehicle. As shown in the Figures, synthetic turf is generally indicatedby the letter t, infill by the letter i, and the subsurface below thesynthetic turf by the letter s. These letter designations are not usedthroughout this textual description, however, to avoid the excessiverepetition that would be created if they were so used.

Referring first to FIG. 1, according to a first preferred embodiment avehicle for use with the various attachment devices disclosed herein isshown and is indicated generally by the numeral 20. The vehicle 20includes a chassis 22 to which all its other components are connected,either directly or indirectly. An upper frame 24 is provided forward ofthe vehicle's power-generating components, which are concealed beneath ahousing 26. For example, the vehicle 20 would include a motor, ahydraulic pump system, and transmission components, even though thesecomponents are not shown specifically in the Figures. A platform 28 isprovided rearward of the frame 24 and the housing 26, and a user canstand on the platform 28 to ride with the vehicle 20. A control console30 is provided with controllers 32 for controlling or operating thevehicle 20. A handlebar 34 is provided near the control console 30 for auser to grab, such as for support while stepping onto the platform 28.

The vehicle 20 includes endless drive track assemblies 36 having endlessloop tracks or treads 38, which are also referred to as treads. A drivesprocket 40 transfers rotational power to the tracks 38, which rotatearound a series of intermediate rollers 42 and front rollers 44. Therollers 42, 44 are connected to roller plates 46, which are attached tothe chassis 22. The tracks 38 are separated by a space, or distance d.By using tracks, the vehicle 20 applies less weight per unit area towhatever is beneath it, compared to the weight that would otherwise beapplied if conventional wheels and tires were used to support thevehicle. The use of such tracks is advantageous in the context of asynthetic turf field, because such tracks minimize disruption to thesubsurface beneath the synthetic turf.

The vehicle 20 includes an attachment lift assembly 50 for causingmovement of an attachment device, as will become apparent. Theattachment lift assembly 50 includes two generally parallel andforwardly-extending arms 52 connected by a transverse brace 54, whichtogether form a support. The arms 52 include an attachment portion 56 ata forward end thereof and have a plurality of locking pin holes 58. Thearms 52 also include an angled pivot portion 60 at a rearward endthereof. The arms 52 are pivotally connected to the upper frame 24through pivot brackets 62, which are positioned near the intersection ofthe upper frame 24 and the roller plates 46. The attachment liftassembly 50 further comprises movement actuators 64 for causing movementof each arm 52. Each movement actuator 64 includes a cylinder 66 havinga hydraulically driven piston 68. The cylinder 66 is connected at a baseend 70 to the vehicle 20 near the housing 26, and at a terminal end 72to a movement actuator bracket 74. The movement actuator bracket 74 isconnected to, or may be integral with, the arm 52. It will beappreciated that extension of the piston 68 from the cylinder 66 movesthe arms 52 in a generally downward direction, whereas contraction ofthe piston 68 moves the arms 52 in a generally upward direction. Ofcourse, alternative arrangements for providing an attachment liftassembly are also contemplated, such as where the arms 52 are connectedto the roller plates 46, where the cylinders 66 are connected to theroller plates 46, and others. The vehicle 20 also includes acounterweight assembly 80 positioned near the forward end of the endlesstracks 38. The counterweight assembly 80 includes a plurality of weightplates 82, the number of which may be selectively adjusted so that adesired weight balance of the vehicle 20 is achieved, which can beinfluenced by the weight of the user standing on the platform 28, theweight of the attachment device connected to the vehicle 20, and otherfactors.

Referring next to FIGS. 1A, 2, 3A, and 3B, 4, and 5, a turf cuttingattachment 90 is show that can be connected to the vehicle 20. The turfcutting attachment 90 is used to cut a synthetic turf field into strips,which strips are subsequently handled as disclosed herein. Inparticular, the turf cutting attachment 90 includes awidthwise-extending frame 92 having rearwardly extending attachment arms94 that are configured to mate with the attachment portions 56 of thearms 52 of the vehicle 20. Each attachment arm 94 includes a locking pinhole 96 configured to receive a locking pin, such as to lock the arms 52with respect to the arms 94. Two turf guide and cutting assemblies 98are mounted on the frame 92 by a mounting bracket 100. A turf guide 102extends from each bracket 100 toward the front end of the turf cuttingattachment 90, and includes an angled feed ramp 104 having a distallylocated tip 106. A turf cutter 108 is connected to the bracket 100, andin the embodiment shown includes a circular blade 110 that is driven bya motor 112 and is partially covered by a shroud 114. The motor 112 isoperatively connected to a power source maintained by the vehicle 20,such as a supply of hydraulic fluid, for example. As the vehicle 20moves in the forward direction, the angled feed ramp 104 guides thesynthetic turf toward the turf cutter 108, and the blade 110 cuts theturf. In other embodiments, other cutting devices can be used, such asband saws, heat cutting tools, air cutting tools, shears, and the like.It will be appreciated that the distance between the turf cutter 108 ischosen to cut an appropriately-sized strip of synthetic turf.Particularly, the distance between the turf cutting devices 108 ischosen so as to cut strips of synthetic turf that are slightly narrowerthan the distance d between the tracks 38 of the vehicle 20.

Jack stands 116 can be included with the turf cutting attachment 90 tosupport the weight thereof, and to prevent excessive weight from beingsupported by the turf guides 102, such as near the tips 106. The jackstands 116 can move up and down with respect to the frame 92, or couldalso rotate with respect thereto.

The turf cutting attachment 90 also includes position marking assemblies120 for making a guide mark on a synthetic turf field corresponding to adesired cut line. The position marking assemblies are positionedgenerally at opposed ends of the frame 92, and each includes a positionadjustable arm 122 extending from the frame 92. A position marker 124depends downwardly from the position adjustable arm 122, and includes achain portion 126 and a spiked weight 128 at the distal end thereof. Thespiked weight 128, when dragged across a field of synthetic turf,disturbs the turf in a manner that creates a visually perceptible line.The position of the position marker 124 with respect to the frame 92 maybe chosen (by adjusting the position of each arm 122) so that the linecreated by the position marker 124 corresponds to a position for theuser to make a cut in the synthetic turf using the turf cuttingattachment 90, such as the next cut in the synthetic turf when the useris following a back-and-forth route across a field (in the familiar waythat a lawn is mowed, for example).

As shown in FIG. 4, as the vehicle 20 having the turf cutting attachment90 makes its way across the field of synthetic turf, the turf is cutinto strips (cut turf lines indicated by the letter c), and marked withthe position for the next cut line (marked turf line indicated by theletter m). And as shown in FIG. 5, in addition to cutting the syntheticturf into strips, the vehicle 20 can be used in with an infillextraction and collection attachment 140.

Referring next to FIGS. 5, 6, 7, and 7A-7E, an infill extraction andcollection attachment 140 is shown that can be connected to the vehicle20. The infill extraction and collection attachment 140 is used toseparate infill from synthetic turf, and to collect the infill. Inparticular, and as shown in FIG. 5, once a field of synthetic turf iscut into strips, the strips are processed by the infill extraction andcollection attachment 140.

The infill extraction and collection attachment 140 includes a frame 142to which its various components are attached. At the forward endthereof, the infill extraction and collection attachment 140 includes aturf conveyor assembly 144. A hinged insertion plate 146 is at theleading edge thereof, and is for insertion under a portion of syntheticturf. The turf conveyor assembly 144 includes a driven endless conveyorbelt 148 for moving and supporting synthetic turf as it moves upwardlyat an angle thereon.

The turf conveyor assembly 144 includes a heavy roller 150 near itsforward end (near the hinged insertion plate 146). The heavy roller 150helps to encourage traction between the synthetic turf and the endlessconveyor belt 148. The heavy roller 150 is passive, and not driven by amotor, though it could be. The turf conveyor assembly also includes afirst nipped roller 152 near an upper end thereof and generally awayfrom the heavy roller 150. The first nipped roller 152 is driven by amotor and positively engages the synthetic turf and feeds it into anextraction and collection assembly 160, which may also be referred to asan extractor/collector, as it includes an infill removal section.Further, the first nipped roller 152 generally discourages the syntheticturf from entering the extraction and collection assembly 160 fasterthan rotation of the first nipped roller 152 will allow.

A turf conveyor assembly movement actuator 154 is provided for pivotablyraising and lowering the turf conveyor assembly 144 (with a raisedposition being shown in dashed lines in FIGS. 6 and 7, for example), andmay include a hydraulic cylinder system 156 connected to the frame 142that operates according to well known principles.

The extraction and collection assembly 160 includes a housing 162 thatincludes side panels 164 and a lid 166. An entry 168 and exit 170 aredefined in forward upper and lower portions of the housing 162,respectively. The entry 168 may generally be considered an input sectionand the exit 170 may generally be considered an output section.Synthetic turf being processed by the extraction and collection assembly160 enters the housing at the entry 168 and exits the housing 162 at theexit 170. Thus, synthetic turf enters and exits the extraction andcollection assembly 160 on the same generally forward side. A guide rail172 is disposed within the housing 162 that defines and limits themovement of synthetic turf therein. In particular, the guide rail 172includes a generally flat upper portion 174 connected with a generallyflat lower portion 176, with the portions 174, 176 being connected neara rearward end of the housing 162 by a curved transition portion 178. Asecond nipped roller 180 is positioned with the housing 162 near theexit 170 and is used to urge synthetic turf out of the housing 162. Whenturf exits the housing 162, it falls under its own weight toward theground and is guided by an external guide 182 away from the housing 162.Particularly, the external guide 182 can include a generally cage-likestructure that guides the turf away from the infill extraction andcollection attachment 140 and back toward the ground.

The housing 162 also includes a collection bin 184 for collecting infillthat is removed from the synthetic turf, the collection bin havingangled walls 186 leading to a trough 188. The trough 188 includes anopening 190 for removal of the infill therefrom by an auger 192, as willbe explained more fully below. The collection bin 184 can also bereferred to generally as an infill collector section.

A plurality of infill extractors 200 are provided within the housing162. The infill extractors 200 act on the synthetic turf to essentiallyagitate or beat the synthetic turf so that the infill becomes separatedfrom the turf. Hence the infill extractors can also be referred to asagitators. The infill then falls within the housing 162 into thecollection bin 184. In particular, each infill extractor 200 includes acentral shaft 202, a plurality of arms 204 extending from the centralshaft 202, and a distal shaft 206 associated with each an 204 and beingpositioned away from the central shaft 202, giving each infill extractoran overall triangular cross-sectional shape. While three arms 204 andthree distal shafts 206 are shown, other numbers thereof are alsocontemplated, such as infill extractors having two arms and two distalshafts. The extractors 200 are rotated about their central shafts 202,and the distal shafts 206 make contact with the synthetic turf. Thereby,infill is dislodged from the synthetic turf and falls in the housing 162and eventually reaches the collection bin 184.

As synthetic turf enters the extraction and collection assembly housing162 at the entry 168, it is directed rearwardly in a generallyhorizontal orientation. Movement thereof is limited and guided by theguide rail 172. The synthetic turf is moved rearwardly and around arearmost infill extractor 200, which then feeds the synthetic turfhorizontally in the opposite direction back toward the front of thehousing 162, so to invert the synthetic turf. The infill extractors 200can act to both pull the strip of synthetic turf into the extraction andcollection assembly 160 and beat the turf so as to remove the infilltherefrom. The infill extractors 200 are driven by one or more motorsand can rotate in either rotational direction. For example, driving theinfill extractors 200 in one direction tends to pull the synthetic turfinto the extraction and collection assembly 160 and direct it toward therearward portion thereof. As the synthetic turf reaches the rearwardportion of the extraction and collection assembly 160 and is inverted,rotation of the infill extractors 200 in the same direction directs thesynthetic turf toward the front of the extraction and collectionassembly 160 and toward the exit 170. The second nipped roller 180further directs the synthetic turf out of the housing 162 through theexit 170. Advantageously, the central shafts 202 of the infillextractors 200 may be inter-connected by a drive assembly 199 so thatrotation of one central shaft 202 (a driven shaft) causes rotation ofthe other central shafts 202. The drive assembly 199 may include anyappropriate linkages, and may be operatively connected to a power sourcemaintained by the vehicle 20, as will be apparent to a skilledpractitioner. Further, the rotation of the central shafts 202 shafts maybe set to any appropriate timing. For example, the central shafts 202may be driven at the same or different rotational rates. Advantageously,the rearward-most infill extractor 200 may be driven at a slowerrotational rate than the more forward infill extractors 200 since therearward-most infill extractor will be under a greater load by virtue ofbeing in contact with a greater portion of the synthetic turf. Also, allthree central shafts 202 may be driven at different rates. Moreover, theinfill extractors 200 may be set to have any relative rotationalposition. For example, the rotational position of the triangular-shapedinfill extractors 200 may be synchronized so similar respective arms 204of the triangle shapes occupy the same rotational position.Alternatively, similar respective arms 204 of the triangle shapes maynot occupy the same rotational position. Optionally, a cover plate 169may be provided above the first encountered infill extractor, which ispositioned nearest the entry 168 and exit 170.

Some of the infill loosens as the synthetic turf moves rearwardly towardthe rear of the housing 162, while most of the infill falls out uponbeating of the synthetic turf as it moves forwardly, in the invertedposition. The infill removed from the synthetic turf in the extractionand collection assembly 160 is collected in the collection bin 184 nearthe bottom of the housing 162.

After being fed into the extraction and collection assembly 160, beinginverted, and being beaten by the infill extractors 200, the turf isdirected via the external guide 182 to a position under the infillextraction and collection attachment 140 and between the tracks 38 ofthe vehicle 20. Particularly, the second nipped roller 180 is positionednear the exit 170 of the extraction and collection assembly 160 andpulls the synthetic turf so as to direct it out of the extraction andcollection assembly 160. The second nipped roller may be driven, withthe rotational rate of the second nipped roller 180 being slightlygreater than the rotational rate of the first nipped roller 152 so as tomaintain a tension in the synthetic turf when it is in the extractionand collection assembly 160. Of course, the nipped rollers 152, 180 maybe driven at any relative rate, including at the same rate. The nippedrollers 152, 180 may also be referred to as pinch rollers, or guiderollers.

Thus, the first nipped roller 152 directs synthetic turf into theextraction and collection assembly 160 and the second nipped roller 180directs synthetic turf out of the extraction and collection assembly160. As mentioned, the infill extractors 200 can rotate in a directionthat encourages movement of the synthetic turf through the extractionand collection assembly 160 from the entry 168 to the exit 170.Advantageously, the rotational direction of the infill extractors 200may be controlled by a user for the efficient movement of the syntheticturf through the extraction and collection assembly 160. For example,while the infill extractors 200 generally move in a direction thatencourages the synthetic turf to move through the extraction andcollection assembly 160 from the entry 168 to the exit 170, thedirection of the infill extractors 200 may also be reversed. Since thesecond nipped roller 180 pulls the synthetic turf through the extractionand collection assembly 160 and pushes it out of the exit 170, thesynthetic turf will continue to advance between the entry 168 and theexit 170 in the extraction and collection assembly 160, even if thedirection of rotation of the infill extractors 200 is working againstsuch movement. Reversing the direction of the infill extractors 200 maybe beneficial near the end of a strip of synthetic turf in order toalter the speed at which the synthetic turf exits the extraction andcollection assembly 160 and to prevent the synthetic turf fromtravelling too quickly therethrough. Thus, the invention contemplatesstructure for restraining a trailing edge of a strip of synthetic turffrom being pulled prematurely into the extraction and collectionassembly 160. Such structure may also include pacing rollers or pulldevices, as will be discussed below. A control system is operativelyconnected to the infill extractors 200 and to at least one of the nippedrollers 152, 180, and is adapted to rotate the infill extractors 200 ata higher speed than the at least one of the nipped rollers 152, 180.

As the vehicle 20 moves along a field of synthetic turf, a strip of thesynthetic turf is fed into the entry 168 of the extraction andcollection assembly 160 and then replaced back onto the subsurface atthe lower front end of the extraction and collection assembly 160, butwith the infill removed therefrom. Advantageously, and because the stripof synthetic turf fits between the tracks 38 of the vehicle 20, thevehicle 20 does not disturb the ground or subsurface beneath the turf.

Notably, the vehicle 20 drives on the synthetic turf adjacent the stripof turf where infill is being removed from, so that the vehicle 20 isnot driving directly on the subsurface below the synthetic turf. Thisgreatly assists in minimizing the need for repair or rework of thesubsurface, so that a new field can be put in as quickly and asefficiently as possible.

It is to be understood that the length of the strip removed from thesurface is, when placed back on the surface in an unfilled condition,displaced from its original position along the path traversed by thevehicle. This is due to the fact that a certain length of strip is“taken up” within the apparatus. If it is desirable to eliminate allcontact between the vehicle and the subsurface, a “dummy” lead sectioncan be attached to the forward end of the strip, with this lead sectionbeing the same width as the strip and of a length needed to traverse thepath from the front end of the ramp along the path through theextractor/collector and to the front of the extractor/collector, so thatthere will be no portion of uncovered subsurface as the vehicle movesover the strip.

As mentioned, the collection bin 184 includes a trough 188 having anopening 190 therein. Infill collected in the trough 188 is moved towardthe opening 190 by an auger 192, and exits through the opening 190 andis directed to an elongated infill mover, in this case an endlessconveyor belt 194 of an infill conveyor assembly 196. The opening 190may be located near an end of the collection bin 184, for example. Theconveyor belt 194 of the conveyor assembly 196 is upwardly andrearwardly directed, and may include a plurality of spaced partitions198 for holding infill. The conveyor belt 194 directs the infill fromthe collection bin 184 toward an infill collection device, which in theembodiments shown is in the form of an infill collection trailer 201. Adownward deflector is positioned at the terminal end of the conveyorbelt to deflect the conveyed infill downward to the infill collectiontrailer below. Alternatively, the elongated infill mover may use anauger to move the infill from the collector bin 184 to the collectortrailer 201.

At the terminal end of the conveyor belt 194, infill falls into theinfill collection trailer 201. The infill collection trailer 201generally connects with the infill extraction and collection attachment140 via a hitch 203, and is pulled behind the vehicle 20. The hitch 203could alternatively connect the trailer 201 to the vehicle 20. Thetrailer 201 includes a bottom surface 205, side walls 207, and a frontwall 208, with a collection space 210 generally defined therebetween.There is no rear wall, which allows for the efficient removal of infillfrom the trailer 201. An upper framework 212 extends from the walls 207,208 and includes upwardly extending arms 214 joined by connecting arms216. Retaining levers 218 are provided on the upper framework 212 forholding the straps or handles 220 of a large bag 222, which is suspendedin the trailer 201. The upper framework 212 and the retaining levers 218form a sort of bracket configured to carry a container for infill, suchas the bag 222, and to maintain it in an open condition. The infill canbe collected in the bag 222, which may subsequently be removed from thetrailer 201. To that end, the trailer 201 includes a ram 224, or pushmechanism, for pushing the large bag 222 therefrom. The ram 224 includesa movement actuator 226, such as a cylinder 228 having a hydraulicallyactivated piston 230 attached to the ram 224. Extension of the piston230 pushes a bag 222 out of the trailer 201, which bag 222 may then belifted and removed by suitable equipment (a fork of a fork-lift isshown). Of course, the handles 220 of the bag 222 would first be removedfrom the retaining levers 218 before attempting to remove the bag 222from the trailer 201. The bag 222 can be removed from the trailer 201after the trailer 201 reaches a pre-defined weight and/or volume limitfor the bag 222, and the trailer 201 can include necessary measuringdevices therefor. Also, the trailer 201 includes large and softpneumatic tires 232.

The conveyor assembly 196 that moves the infill from the collection bin184 to the infill collection trailer 201 may be selectively activated bya user, such as to momentarily suspend operation of the conveyor track194 (or perhaps the auger 192). The collection bin 184 can besufficiently sized so as not to require continuous augering and removalof infill therefrom, in order to allow the conveyor assembly 196 or theauger 192 to be momentarily suspended. Thereby, replacement oradjustment of the bag 222 in the trailer 201 can be achieved withoutsuspending the entire operation.

FIG. 7E depicts components of an infill extraction and collectionassembly 160′ according to an alternative embodiment of an infillextraction and collection attachment. A turf conveyor assembly 144′ usedin association therewith does not include a nipped roller, as in thefirst nipped roller 152 of the embodiment discussed above. Furthermore,the synthetic turf does not follow a similarly shaped path as providedby the guide rail 172 of the embodiment discussed above. Rather, thesynthetic turf follows a partially generally sinusoidal pathway definedby a partially generally sinusoidal shaped guide rail 172. As syntheticturf enters the extraction and collection assembly 160′ at an entry168′, a first pacing roller 201 having a plurality of spaced engagementteeth engages the upper surface of the synthetic turf and urges thesynthetic turf further into the extraction and collection assembly 160′.A first infill extractor 200′ that is substantially similar to theinfill extractor 200 discussed above contacts the synthetic turf on thelower surface thereof, and further urges the synthetic turf along itspathway and begins to beat the synthetic turf, thereby dislodging theinfill therefrom. As the synthetic turf goes past the first infillextractor 200′, a second pacing roller 201 engages the upper surface ofthe synthetic turf and pushes it further along its pathway. Thesynthetic turf is contacted by a third pacing roller 201 that engagesthe upper surface of the synthetic turf as the synthetic turf is beinginverted. A fourth pacing roller 201 positioned generally below thefirst infill extractor 200 further engages the synthetic turf, and inthis location the synthetic turf is completely inverted. A tensionroller 203 is positioned after the fourth pacing roller 201 and engagesthe inverted upper surface of the synthetic turf. A second infillextractor 200 follows the tension roller 203 and contacts the syntheticturf on the inverted lower surface thereof. Finally, the guide rail 172′guides the synthetic turf out of the extraction and collection assembly160′ through an exit 170′, and directs the synthetic turf back towardthe ground, in a similar manner as the embodiment discussed above. Thepacing rollers can be passive or driven, and if driven can be driven atany speed, including different speeds for different pacing rollers 201.Further, the tension roller 203 may also be passive or driven, and canbe driven at any speed with respect to infill extractors 200′ or thepacing rollers 201. Further still, the infill extractors 200′ aredriven, and may be driven at any appropriate speed with respect to oneanother or with respect to the pacing rollers 201 or the tension roller203.

Referring next to FIGS. 8A-8C, 9A-9C, and 10, a turf rolling attachment240 is shown that can be connected to the vehicle 20. The turf rollingattachment 240 is useful for removing synthetic turf from a field.Because of the movement involved, the turf rolling attachment 240 canalso be referred to as a wind up attachment.

The turf rolling attachment 240 includes a frame 242 having attachmentarms 244 for mating with the attachment arms 52 of the vehicle 20.Widthwise-extending and adjustable position arms 246 are attached to theframe 24. A position adjustment actuator 248 is provided for moving thearms 246 in the widthwise direction, and may include a hydrauliccylinder arrangement 250 that operates according to well knownprinciples. Extension arms 252 are connected to the arms 246 and extendin a generally forward direction. First portions 254 thereof extendgenerally parallel with the attachment arms 244, and second portions 256thereof extend from the first portions 254 in a further forward, butdownward direction. Turf rolling assemblies 258 are located near adistal end of the second portions 256 away from the first portions 254.Each turf rolling assembly includes a hub 260 that is rotatably moveablewith respect to the second portion 256. Tines 262 extend from each hub260 toward the other hub 260, the tines being configured to grab andhold a portion of synthetic turf. A rotational movement actuator, suchas a motor 264, is provided for rotating each hub 260. The hubs 260 maybe rotated in either direction.

A strip of synthetic turf is placed around one or more of the tines 262,and the motor 264 can then rotate the hub 260, thereby rolling thesynthetic turf up and into a roll, as shown. The distance between therespective turf rolling assemblies 258 can be adjusted. For example,before rolling a strip of synthetic turf, the arms 246 are moved into anappropriately-spaced orientation so the strip of synthetic turf fitsbetween, but properly engages, the turf rolling assemblies 258. Once thestrip of synthetic turf is rolled up, the arms 246 may again be moved,to move the turf rolling assemblies 258 away from each other, therebyreleasing the roll of synthetic turf from the turf rolling attachment240.

The turf rolling attachment 240 may be used with the vehicle 20 heldstationary or with the vehicle 20 moving. For example, the vehicle 20may be parked on the sidelines and off of the synthetic turf to beremoved, and the synthetic turf is pulled by the turf rolling attachment240 and rolled up. Advantageously, this approach allows the syntheticturf to be removed without driving the vehicle 20 over the subsurfacebelow the synthetic turf, thereby limiting or eliminating any damage tothe subsurface that would have to be repaired before a new syntheticturf is installed. Also, the turf rolling attachment may be used withthe vehicle 20 driving across the field as the strip of synthetic turfis rolled up.

As shown in FIG. 10, after the infill is removed from synthetic turf bythe infill extraction and collection attachment, it can be rolled up bythe turf rolling attachment.

A roll of synthetic turf may be removed from the turf removal attachmentand transported for reconditioning, recycling, or other disposal.Advantageously, the infill is removed from a strip of synthetic turfbefore it is removed from a field, but such is not required as theinfill can be removed away from the field, such as at an off-sitelocation, as discussed above.

Further, the vehicle 20 can be used in accordance with the teachingsrelating to the devices and methods disclosed in U.S. Patent PublicationNo. 2012/0067996, which is hereby incorporated by reference in itsentirety. Particularly, the frame 16 of the '996 publication can be usedas an attachment device that can be connected to the vehicle 20 forunrolling a roll of turf onto a field. In particular, the frame 16,along with the spindle 18 holding a roll 20 of synthetic turf, all ofthe '996 publication, can be used with the vehicle 20 herein as a turfinstallation attachment, and can be used for installing a new syntheticturf onto a field. Methods for using the vehicle 20 in conjunction withthe frame 16 of the '996 publication will be evident from the teachingsof the '996 publication.

Thus, when it is time to remove a synthetic turf field, the vehicle andattachment devices disclosed herein can be used. Particularly, thevehicle 20 can be used with the turf cutting attachment 90 to cut asynthetic turf field into strips. Then, the vehicle 20 can be used withthe infill extraction and collection attachment 140 to remove the infillfrom the strips of synthetic turf. The infill can be collected, savedfor subsequent use, or handled in any other way. Once the infill hasbeen removed from the synthetic turf, the vehicle 20 can be used withthe turf rolling attachment 240 to remove the strips of synthetic turffrom the field, either with the vehicle 20 held stationary, or bydriving the vehicle 20 across the field as the strips are rolled up. Thevehicle 20 and the attachment devices disclosed herein allow thesynthetic turf to be removed with minimal disruption of the underlyingsubsurface.

Alternatively, the vehicle 20 can be used with the turf cuttingattachment 90 to cut a synthetic turf field into strips. The strips canthen be rolled up using the vehicle 20 and the turf rolling attachment240. Infill contained within the strips of synthetic turf can be removedat an off-site location, or the strips can be otherwise handled. Forexample, an off-site stationary device can include an infill extractionand collection component similar to the infill extraction and collectionattachment assembly 160 disclosed herein.

Synthetic turf and infill recovered as disclosed herein can be handledin any desired manner. For example, the synthetic turf may be recycled,discarded, or reused. Likewise, the infill may be recycled, discarded,or reused.

The extraction and collection assembly 160 can also be used incircumstances other than in association with a motorized vehicle of thetype shown in the Figures. For example, the extraction and collectionassembly 160 can be mounted at a fixed off-site location for stationaryoperation. The strips of filled synthetic turf can be fed into thestationary extraction and collection assembly 160, at theextractor/collector site, and the infill removed therefrom. For example,strips of infilled synthetic turf may be removed from a distant fieldand then transferred to the extractor/collector site to recover theinfill. Synthetic turf that exits the stationary extraction andcollection assembly 160 can be further processed, such as rolled up intoa roll or fed into a shredding machine, for example. The infill removedfrom the synthetic turf can be further processed, as well, or disposedof, as appropriate. Thus, the stationary extractor/collector site may becapable of serving an entire geographical region.

According to one aspect of the invention, the extraction and collectionassembly 160 disclosed herein has the capability for directly engaging aleading edge of a strip of synthetic turf, such as at the edge of afield. In contrast, prior art devices have required that a lead-up stripbe attached to synthetic turf, so that the lead-up strip can be fed intothe prior art devices before the synthetic turf. The attachment of alead-up strip to synthetic turf requires a user to physically connectthe lead-up strip to the synthetic turf and such lead-up strips can takeseveral feet or yards of material. The present invention makes the useof such a lead-up strip unnecessary, and thereby saves time andresources that would otherwise be required by a lead up strip.

While chain and sprocket drive mechanisms are shown in association withthe various devices in the figures, belts, pulleys, and other associateddrive mechanisms are also considered appropriate and may be used inalternative embodiments.

Thus, by using the devices and methods disclosed herein, the presentinvention enables a synthetic turf to be cut into strips, the infillremoved (i.e., extracted and collected) from the synthetic turf, thesynthetic turf removed from a field, and a new synthetic turf installedin a relatively short time window. Advantageously, the present inventioncontemplates removal of a synthetic turf in a manner that does notdisrupt the subsurface beneath the synthetic turf, or does so only to asmall extent. The present invention contemplates removing the infill atthe site and collecting the infill at the site in an infill collectiontrailer, or removing the infill at an off-site extractor/collectorlocation. The removed infill can be reused, recycled, or disposed of ascircumstances dictate. Also, the removed turf can be transported to areconditioning, recycling, or disposal facility.

This specification shows and describes several preferred embodiments ofthe invention. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate thatthe disclosed embodiments are susceptible to a reasonable amount ofmodification and/or permutation, without departing from the overallscope of the invention. For instance, the dimensions of the componentsshown and described, and/or the relationships of those dimensions toother components may vary, as needed, in order to apply the generalprinciples of the present invention to the actual circumstances at hand.Moreover, it is to be understood that the recitation of “objects of theinvention” in this specification is not intended to be construed as anadmission that others have recognized the same problems or perceived thesame limitations in the state of the art, as recognized by the presentinventors. Moreover, the recitation of the objects of the invention isalso not intended to require each of the following claims to achieve allof the above-stated objects. Rather, the recitation of the objects ofthe invention in this specification is intended merely to help explainthe story behind the present invention, and to explain why the presentinvention represents an advance in the state of the art over existingtechnology. Accordingly, the inventors intend that the scope of theappended claims are not to be limited by the specific details shown ordescribed herein, or by the “objects” described above.

We claim:
 1. A method comprising: engaging opposite edges of a strip of artificial turf via a pair of opposing rotatable holders aligned along a first axis, the holders carried at forward ends of a pair of spaced arms of a frame, the frame located at a first front end of a motorized vehicle; and rotating the holders about the first axis to wind up the engaged strip of artificial turf into a roll, wherein each of the holders further comprises at least two tines.
 2. The method of claim 1 further comprising: prior to the engaging, moving the holders along the first axis to positions which enable the holders to engage the edges of the strip.
 3. The method of claim 1 further comprising: moving the vehicle during the rotating.
 4. The method of claim 1 further comprising: maintaining the vehicle in a stationary position during the rotating.
 5. The method of claim 1 further comprising: moving the holders vertically relative to the vehicle during the rotating.
 6. A method comprising: engaging opposite edges of a strip of artificial turf via a pair of opposing rotatable holders aligned along a first axis, the holders carried at forward ends of a pair of spaced arms of a frame, the frame located at a first front end of a motorized vehicle; and rotating the holders about the first axis to wind up the engaged strip of artificial turf into a roll, wherein each of the holders is rotated by a motor operatively coupled thereto, and each of the motors is located at the corresponding forward end of one of the spaced arms of the frame.
 7. The method of claim 6 further comprising: prior to the engaging, moving the holders along the first axis to positions which enable the holders to engage the edges of the strip.
 8. The method of claim 6 further comprising: moving the vehicle during the rotating.
 9. The method of claim 6 further comprising: maintaining the vehicle in a stationary position during the rotating.
 10. The method of claim 6 further comprising: moving the holders vertically relative to the vehicle during the rotating. 